Smi-Yeah: The Origins of Smino

Oftentimes we have complications discovering artists who create music that articulates who we are as beings. The music scene, like every other, can easily become saturated. When it does we go on an endless loop of listening to the same music for months on end. However, an artist who is capable of captivating, refreshing, and originality, is Smino. 

Smino was born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri, and later moved to Chicago. He introduced a nostalgic style of artistry to the rap scene. In his music, you can depict inspirations of artists like Outkast, and genres like gospel. He weaves his authentic creativity seamlessly into his art.  

Smino has the laudable ability to formulate his ideas, psychological symphonies, and individual artistry into music. His projects “Luv 4 Rent” and “Noir” illustrate the ease with which he establishes himself within his art. 

A fan classic is his album “blkswn.” Blkswn was released in 2017. When released, his fan favorites Amphetamine, blkswn, Wild Irish Roses, Netflix & Dusse, and Anita submerged listeners into an enticing, soulful, rhythmic experience. It is tied in soul, rhythm and blues, rap, and many other genres.

Smino’s career is endlessly one of my favorite depictions of honest artistry. He allows his passions to morph into physical art. 

Oftentimes our music can become outplayed and oversaturated. It can become difficult to find an artist who offers a refreshing sound, but Smino is the preeminent example of refreshing.